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Rachel Cramer Obituary
She was a proud aunt and honorary godmother to many children. She took great joy in introducing them to her puppets and the joy of reading through her love of children's books. Rachel was especially passionate about the well-being of children, serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in D.C. Rachel's lifelong interest in helping children dealing with grief led her to pursue a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Virginia Tech. Her work at the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing in Washington, DC, allowed her to combine her personal experience and her training to help children facing life-altering events.
Rachel was an avid reader, and her friends could count on receiving unique and often mystifying individualized book recommendations. Rachel was a talented artist, enjoying needlework, jewelry-making and drawing. Rachel's sharp intellect, wit and generosity were admired by her many friends and colleagues.
A native of Los Angeles, California, Rachel received her B.A. in History from Brandeis University, Boston, Massachusetts, in 1980. After graduating from the Washington University in St. Louis School of Law in 1983, she moved to Washington, DC, and began her legal career working for several small- and medium-sized firms before joining the Department of Justice in 1991. In 2001, Rachel was appointed Director of Training and Professional Development, a position she held at the time of her death.
She mentored several generations of young professionals, and her honest counsel was greatly appreciated by her colleagues throughout the Department of Justice. Rachel was passionate about education and professional development. She was particularly dedicated to helping people achieve a career that balanced their legal skills and overall wellbeing. Rachel's dedication to integrity, collaboration and community were the hallmarks of her decades of service, and she modeled these values for those who crossed her path.
She is survived by her siblings, Daniel (Tamara), Rebecca (Elon) and LaMaia and her nieces and nephews, Katherine, Lorelei, Victor, Nate (Becky) and Ethan.
Donations in Rachel's memory can be made to the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing in Washington, DC, and MAZON.
A celebration of Rachel's life will be held on June 8, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Taqueria el Poblano, 2503A N. Harrison Street, Arlington, VA 22207.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rachel Cramer
Cynthia and Peter Martin
August 10, 2025
She was iconic figure.
Rena
July 12, 2024
My deepest condolences to Rachel's family. We worked together at DOJ and I appreciated her commitment recruitment, hiring and training DOJ's interns and lawyers. Her integrity and passion were second to none. I will miss her. May her memory be blessing.
Mike Bailie
June 8, 2024
Rachel was a pleasure to know. I was so very saddened by her passing. She always had wonderful, positive comments about my grandchildren. I could always count on her quick wit to bring a smile to my face. She is already missed! Rest in peace my friend.
Alyssa
June 2, 2024
Rachel was so loved by our family. We often crossed paths at brunch at Taqueria and she would always engage my children so lovingly. We have many puppets and books that will keep her alive in our memories. Sending love to Rachel´s family and other friends.
Jessie Ginsburg
May 15, 2024
Rachel was my mentor from when I first started as the training director of another DOJ component in 2005. We collaborated on many projects over the years, including going to pretty much every diversity training we could find in 2010 in order to bring the best one to the Department. Rachel remained a great source of guidance, helping with numerous training initiatives. Whenever I needed insight from another part of DOJ, Rachel was the first person I would call. I miss her greatly.
Sarah Mayhew
May 14, 2024
To Rachel's family, I am so sorry for your loss. Rachel was a constant presence during my years at the Tax Division. She was always available for a chat and encouraged me in my endeavors. She was unique. May her memory be a blessing.
Betsy Erickson
May 12, 2024
Rachel was a true asset to the Tax Division in so many ways and she will be sorely missed. I was fortunate to work with her for several decades and especially appreciated the wise counsel she provided to the intern hiring and training programs as well as the Diversity Committee.
Stephanie
May 9, 2024
I was so deeply saddened to learn of Rachel's death. As a child therapist at the Wendt Center, I loved Rachel's passion for learning to use play as a means for helping young people find a voice to express their grief. Rachel was a firm believer that all children regardless of age could be in relationship, experience loss and grieve. I am thrilled to know so many children could benefit from her laugh, her smile, her wit, her craftiness and her intelligence. Thank you Rachel- for all you gave me!
Deb Meland
May 9, 2024
Rachel always provided useful advice and counsel. She always made time to listen when I needed a sounding board. She was smart, vivacious, and cared deeply. She will be missed.
Peggy Ament
May 9, 2024
My deepest sympathies. Her work and vision bettered our lives in far reaching ways, but had only begun. She is missed hugely.
Henrietta Ford
May 9, 2024
To the family of Rachel Cramer. I send my prayers and condolence to you in the time of your loss. I worked with Rachel for years in Tax Divison, Office of Training. She was not only my supervisor but a friend. She will be missed.
Caryn Mark Finley
May 9, 2024
Sending Rachel's family and friends my deepest sympathies. I first met Rachel as an intern at Tax Division and was honored to work with her for more than 18 years. We worked on numerous trainings and she always prioritized helping the attorneys become the best versions of themselves. May her memory be a blessing.
Phyllis
May 9, 2024
Please accept my sincere condolences regarding Rachel's passing. Rachel was a huge help to me regarding recommending trainings that would assist my career path, and I am thankful for her guidance.
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